The Chanler at Cliff Walk

Arriving at The Chanler at Cliff Walk feels a bit like arriving at a private estate. A stone gate marks its entry, and a long driveway leads to a small portico in front of the building. The hotel itself looks like a petit chateau that one might find in the French countryside. Inside, the warm lobby feels like the estate’s upscale living room, with its gorgeous parquet floors, dramatic fireplace, and fresh flower arrangements. Valets continually open the door for newly arriving guests, and whether they’re staying at the hotel or just stopping in for a drink at the bar, all are well heeled. There aren’t many children here, save for the few accompanying their parents to brunch; and the majority of guests appear to be older couples who have been here once or twice before, as the employees greet them by name.    

There are few locations in Newport better than The Chanler’s. Located on the Cliff Walk, a lovely three and a half mile cliff-side path that meanders along the coast, The Chanler is ideally situated for visitors who would like to visit Newport’s famed mansions (which can be seen from the Cliff Walk). It also has spectacular ocean views, thanks to its location just above Easton’s Beach. Thames Street is about a mile down the road, but with the hotel’s free car service, guests never have to worry about finding parking if they choose to shop or dine in the area. 

The European style so clearly displayed at the hotel’s entrance continues throughout the rooms. With names like “Greek Revival,” “Renaissance,” and “English Tudor,” it’s clear that the European motif is purposeful and well thought out. No matter the style, rooms are seriously luxe, and feature down pillows and comforters, fully stocked minibars, heated bathroom floors, and Molton Brown toiletries. The Martha's Vineyard Suite has a four-poster bed and two blue armchairs set at the foot, facing a flat-screen TV. A hot tub and furnished balcony are nice extras. Though there are multiple room types at The Chanler, only one can accommodate more than two adults. 

Guests pay a premium to stay at The Chanler, but there are definitely some added perks to go along with the high price tag. Upon arrival, guests are treated to a glass of Spiced Pear sparkling wine, and receive a special baked good in their rooms. There’s free valet parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, but no free breakfast. Breakfast is served each morning in the Veranda room;  guests will have to pay for the meal. In-room spa treatments are available. The hotel offers concierge services to plan custom itineraries for guests and can offer mansion tickets, organize private tours, and provide fitness center passes to gyms nearby. The hotel will also arrange for a beach butler service at the Newport beach of their choosing for an added fee. Perhaps one of the nicest features at The Chanler is the free in-house car service that will drop off and pick up guests from local Newport attractions. This is a particularly nice perk in a town where parking always seems nearly impossible to find. 

Spiced Pear, The Chanler’s signature fine dining restaurant, is worth a visit even if not staying at the hotel. Anchored by a bustling open kitchen and surrounded by windows offering endless ocean views, the dining room at the Spiced Pear is a feast for the eyes. A fireplace crackles in the center of the room, and chandeliers give the space a soft glow as the din of a dinnertime crowd rises above the sounds of a busy meal preparation. Menu items include fresh local seafood, as well as beef, chicken, and pork options. There is also a chef’s tasting menu available. Guests looking to dine at The Chanler outside of dinnertime hours can visit The Veranda, which is adjacent to Spiced Pear, and offers equally exceptional ocean views. The Bar at The Chanler, a dark wood paneled room with a library-esque feel, is where guests come to enjoy light snacks and a menu of seasonal cocktails.

With its multiple lawns and stunning cliff-side views, The Chanler is a popular wedding venue, especially during the summer months. Though the hotel specializes in smaller weddings (up to 120 people) it can accommodate larger parties upon request. Larger parties often opt to rent out the entire first floor of the hotel, so that guests can mingle on the property’s lawns, dine on the outdoor terrace, and have additional space inside at The Veranda and Spiced Pear. The hotel offers full-service catering and on-site planning services.